Threatened Species Conservation Research Papers (original) (raw)

The eighth international census of Whooper Swans Cygnus cygnus wintering in Britain, Ireland and Iceland (also including the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands) took place in January 2020, to update the estimates of the size, midwinter... more

The eighth international census of Whooper Swans Cygnus cygnus wintering in Britain, Ireland and Iceland (also including the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands) took place in January 2020, to update the estimates of the size, midwinter distribution, habitat use and breeding success of the Icelandic Whooper Swan population. The total of 43,255 swans counted represented a 27.2% increase in numbers since the previous census in 2015. Overall, 36.8% of the population (15,927 birds) was recorded in England, 33.4% (14,467) in the Republic of Ireland, 11.7% (5,052) in Scotland, 10.7% (4,644) in Northern Ireland and 6.8% (2,923) in Iceland, with < 1% (242) in Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands combined. Despite numbers increasing in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland since 2015, the proportion of the total population in the Republic of Ireland was significantly lower in 2020 and no significant difference was detected for Northern Ireland, whereas proportions in England and Scotland were significantly higher in 2020 and lower in Iceland. Breeding success was not associated with temperatures on either the breeding or wintering grounds. It also showed no clear trend over time, suggesting that increased survival may be the demographic driver of the population growth.

Habitat degradation and fragmentation, largely caused by increasing livestock numbers, conversion of steppe to arable land, infrastructure development, and resource extraction, are generally considered the main threats to Pallas’s cats... more

Habitat degradation and fragmentation, largely caused by increasing livestock numbers, conversion of steppe to arable land, infrastructure development, and resource
extraction, are generally considered the main threats to Pallas’s cats Otocolobus manul across its range. In addition, predation by domestic dogs, accidental
capture when hunting/trapping other animals, decreasing prey numbers and poisoning
can seriously impact local populations. We expect the impact of climate change and disease to increase in the near future, but the potential extent and severity of
these threats are currently poorly understood and vary considerably between countries and regions. Even though our understanding of the basic ecology and distribution of Pallas’s cat has increased during the last decade, a clearer scientific understanding is required to support the species conservation. Additional ecological
research is critical, but our inability to efficiently monitor the species across its vast range and reliably detect population trends and distributional changes is arguably
the most important gap in our understanding.

Endangered species lists are important tools in conservation. It is essential that these lists be prepared using categorization systems that objectively assess species extinction risk. To determine which threatened species categorization... more

Endangered species lists are important tools in conservation. It is essential that these lists be prepared using categorization systems that objectively assess species extinction risk. To determine which threatened species categorization system is the most appropriate and the virtues and limitations of systems used on the American continent, we evaluated 25 categorization systems from 20 countries. These systems included examples of international lists, most national systems used on the American continent, and some systems independently proposed by academics. We based our assessment on 15 characteristics that categorization systems should have, in terms of categories, criteria, and other relevant issues, in order to evaluate species conservation status objectively. Of all evaluated systems, the current World Conservation Union system is the most suitable for assessing species extinction risk. Most categorization systems, but particularly national systems, have serious deficiencies and need to be improved substantially. We recommend governments use three types of lists: (1) threatened species lists constructed following a sound categorization system, (2) lists of species of conservation priority, and (3) lists that serve as normative tools (e.g., Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Additionally, the information used to categorize species should be explicit and available to the public. To make the most of threatened species lists in conservation, it is imperative that all countries use the same categorization system. Resumen: Las listas de especies amenazadas son importantes herramientas para la conservación. Es esencial que estas listas se preparen utilizando sistemas de categorización que evalúen objetivamente el riesgo de extinción de las especies. Para determinar qué sistema de categorización de especies amenazadas es el más apropiado y cuáles son las virtudes y limitaciones de los sistemas usados en el continente americano, evalua-mos 25 sistemas de categorización de 20 países. Estos sistemas incluyen ejemplos de listas internacionales, la mayoría de los sistemas nacionales usados en el continente americano, y algunos sistemas propuestos independientemente por académicos. Basamos nuestra evaluación en 15 características que los sistemas de categorización deben tener en términos de las categorías, criterios y otros temas relevantes, para evaluar objetivamente la situación de conservación de las especies. De los sistemas evaluados, el actual sistema de la Unión Mundial para la Conservación es el más apropiado para determinar el riesgo de extinción de las especies. La mayoría de los sistemas de categorización, pero especialmente los sistemas nacionales, tienen serias deficiencias y deben ser mejorados substancialmente. Recomendamos que los gobiernos usen tres tipos de listados: (1) listas de especies amenazadas preparadas usando un sistema de categorización adecuado; (2) listas de especies prioritarias para la conservación; y (3) listas que sirven como herramientas normativas (v.gr., Convención sobre el Comercio Internacional de Especies Amenazadas de Fauna y Flora Silvestres). Adicionalmente, la información usada para categorizar a las especies debe ser explícita y estar disponible ‡Address correspondence to A. D. Cuarón, email cuaron@oikos.unam.mx & cuaron@fmvz.unam.mx Paper

Correct management of protected areas is one of the key factors in biodiversity conservation. Routine surveys in Mincio Natural Park resulted in the finding of a population of Zeuneriana marmorata (Fieber, 1853), listed as... more

Correct management of protected areas is one of the key factors in biodiversity
conservation. Routine surveys in Mincio Natural Park resulted in the finding of a population of Zeuneriana marmorata (Fieber, 1853), listed as EN (Endangered) by IUCN in the Red List of European Orthoptera. Other known populations were known only for NE Adriatic coast in Italy and inland in Slovenia. We assume that the current presence of this species is what remains of a larger metapopulation living in the wet habitats of the plains around the North Adriatic Sea. Causes of range fragmentation are supposed, current threats outlined and possible conservation actions proposed.

Hypothesis (Boecklen, 1986) is that habitat diversity significantly influences the species richness when area is factored out. This hypothesis has highly influenced conservation practices, where the relative merits of large vs. small... more

Hypothesis (Boecklen, 1986) is that habitat diversity significantly influences the species richness when area is factored out. This hypothesis has highly influenced conservation practices, where the relative merits of large vs. small reserves are contested based on the interpretations of island biogeographic theory (Wilson & Willis, 1975). However, in most cases the effects of area and habitat diversity are closely related and often influence each other directly or indirectly. Recent work has shown that habitat diversity and availability of particular habitat types might be important in determining the species richness of Agean land snails (Welter-Schultes & Williams, 1999). The Andaman Islands, which lie off the coast of S.E. Asia in the Bay of Bengal provide a natural laboratory for testing the island biogeographical theory in relation to the effects of area, habitat diversity and habitat types on the species richness of forest birds.

Knowledge about the current distribution of threatened and/or understudied species is a fundamental component of conservation biology. Mapping species distributions based on recent known occurrences is particularly important for those... more

Knowledge about the current distribution of
threatened and/or understudied species is a fundamental
component of conservation biology. Mapping species distributions
based on recent known occurrences is particularly
important for those that are rare or declining. Too
often, cryptic species go undetected throughout parts of
their range, whereas others just receive less research
attention. We used contemporary presence data for the
Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul), a small cryptic felid, to
characterize potential rangewide and regional habitat for
the species and identify those abiotic and biotic variables
most influencing its distribution. Several regions lacking
contemporary occurrence records contain potential habitat
for Pallas’s cats, including the Koh-i-Baba Mountains of
Afghanistan, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, steppes of Inner
Mongolia, Kunlun Mountains of China, and Tian Shan and
Pamir Mountains of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and China.
Some of these areas have not been included in prior rangewide
distribution assessments. The distribution of pikas
(Ochotona spp.), small mammals that likely represent a
critical prey species everywhere they are sympatric, was
the most important factor affecting the Pallas’s cat’s distribution.
This suggests Pallas’s cats may be prey specialists,
and that pika presence and habitat are critical
considerations for future Pallas’s cat surveys and in the
development of regional conservation actions.

Sarawak has the most diverse species of dipterocarps, being represented by 247 species in nine genera. The species of this family are of major importance in the timber trade in the State. However, about 75% of Sarawak dipterocarps are... more

Sarawak has the most diverse species of dipterocarps, being represented by 247 species in nine genera. The species of this family are of major importance in the timber trade in the State. However, about 75% of Sarawak dipterocarps are listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species which could have negative implication for the timber business. Due to the concern from the timber industry, a study is carried out to re-assess the conservation status of the three genera of dipterocarps (i.e. Dipterocarpus, Dryobalanops and Shorea) in Sarawak as they are the major commercial timbers. This paper highlights the findings from this study where 169 species from the three genera were assessed. In the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013, 95% of the species from the three genera are listed as threatened. However, this study provides a more accurate assessment with only 42% of the species under the threatened category. At the same time conservation measures are emphasized particularly for those species that are endemic to Sarawak.

The book is an outcome of the research conducted in collaboration with the amchis of Nepal and with support from the Himalayan Amchi Association (HAA), Kathmandu; WWF Nepal; Dartmouth College, USA; and the Central Department of Botany... more

The book is an outcome of the research conducted in collaboration with the amchis of Nepal and with support from the Himalayan Amchi Association (HAA), Kathmandu; WWF Nepal; Dartmouth College, USA; and the Central Department of Botany (Tribhuvan University), Nepal. The objective of this collaborative research was to document Tibetan medical knowledge, with a focus on medicinal ingredients prescribed in Sowa Rigpa and the aspects of substitution. The book is divided into three parts and four chapters. The first part describes historical and philosophical aspects of Sowa Rigpa from the perspectives of amchi from Nepal. It also includes the history of knowledge transmission and clinical practices among Nepal’s amchi practitioners. The second part deals with the current practices of Sowa Rigpa in Nepal from socio-cultural and economic perspectives, and includes an account of medicinal ingredients prescribed, including ingredients derived from rare and threatened species. The second part also covers the crucial topic of practices of substitution (Tibetan: tshab) for substances derived from species that have become endangered or are at risk. The third part is comprised of a detailed compendium of medicinal plant species. This book documents 570 medicinal plant taxa (including lichens and fungi), and 54 different types of minerals prescribed in Sowa Rigpa in Nepal. In addition, body parts of 46 animal species prescribed in Sowa Rigpa literature are also documented. We have identified mostly locally available products derived from plants (total 92 taxa), animals (4 domestic species) and minerals (9 types) as substitutes for rare and threatened species (25 plants and 30 wild animals) and for species not available locally (33 plants).

Within common popular discourse on domesticated animals, domestication is often understood to be a distinct category from which we can clearly designate that some animals belong and some do not. While there are certainly discussions of... more

Within common popular discourse on domesticated animals, domestication is often understood to be a distinct category from which we can clearly designate that some animals belong and some do not. While there are certainly discussions of liminal species within animal ethics literature, as in those animals existing somewhere on the spectrum between wild and domesticated, there is very little consideration as to how the transition from wild to domesticated may be taking place in contemporary species. And further, both wild and domesticated often persist as rigid black and white categories with domestication being framed as an inherently morally problematic dynamic. In this paper, I seek to complicate the discussion, with particular attention to using past pathways toward domestication as potential models to help us better understand contemporary cases in which animals typically perceived as wild may actually be entangled within a process of domestication. I look to zooarchaeological data on the domestication process of the donkey and the guinea fowl to explore two seemingly distinct pathways to domestication: A directed pathway and a commensal pathway. One key point that I wish to put forward is that many contemporary wild animals living among humans may be said to be proto-domesticates regardless of any intentional project to bring about such an end. I conclude this paper with the claim that we should not be dismissive of this, nor should we see domestication as an inherently problematic or exploitative process. Rather, we can understand it as indicative of dependencies emerging from an ever more anthropogenically modified world that we can strive toward being more cognizant of and intentionally engaged in.

This paper illuminates a variety of issues that speak to the question of whether ‘captivity for conservation’ can be an ethically acceptable goal of the modern zoo. Reflecting on both theoretical disagreements (animal protectionists... more

This paper illuminates a variety of issues that speak to the question of whether ‘captivity for conservation’ can be an ethically acceptable goal of the modern zoo. Reflecting on both theoretical disagreements (animal protectionists versus wildlife conservationists) and practical challenges (the small percentage of endangered species actually exhibited in zoos, disappointing success of reintroduction programs), the paper explains why the ‘Noah’s Ark’ paradigm is being replaced by an alternative ‘integrated approach.’ It explores the changes in the zoo’s core tasks that the new paradigm implies. And it pays special attention to the changes that would have to be made in zoos’ collection policies: connection with in situ projects, emphasizing local species and the local biogeographical region, exchange of animals among zoos and between zoos and wildlife, and a shift towards smaller species. Finally the question will be addressed whether the new paradigm will achieve a morally acceptable balance between animal welfare costs and species conservation benefits.

I consider the interspecies political implications of Vienna, Austria's urban-dwelling European hamsters (Cricetus cricetus). In July 2020, the International Union for Conservation of Nature updated the status of the European hamster on... more

I consider the interspecies political implications of Vienna, Austria's urban-dwelling European hamsters (Cricetus cricetus). In July 2020, the International Union for Conservation of Nature updated the status of the European hamster on its Red List of Threatened Species to 'critically endangered, ' warning that the species is likely to go extinct in the next 30 years. While anthropogenic factors are largely responsible for the current state of the species, the adaptability of these synanthropic hamsters has also led to a unique trajectory in their hope for survival; they have been successful as a liminal species inhabiting urban environments where they have also received prominent attention and protection. I look to the former disregard for their presence as laying the groundwork for closer contemporary ties between humans and hamsters in the city of Vienna. Through Val Plumwood's intentional recognition stance, I propose that the interactions between humans and hamsters in Vienna exemplify the recognition of hamster agency and their political claim on space. The story of the Viennese hamsters also pushes against conventional narratives that often fail to account for the dependence of liminal animals on humans, and it emphasises a call toward not just protecting the abstract category of species, but also the unique relationships between hamsters, humans, and the urban environment of the city.

The main objectives of this research are: 1) the creation of an expert network for the evaluation of the extinction risk of wild bees species in Italy; 2) the evaluation of the extinction risk for the species potentially at risk; 3) the... more

The main objectives of this research are: 1) the creation of an expert network for the evaluation of the extinction risk of wild bees species in Italy; 2) the evaluation of the extinction risk for the species potentially at risk; 3) the identification of the main threats and the conservation actions needed to tackle them. The assessments of extinction risk are based on the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria and the most updated guidelines. The assessments have been carried out in a workshop with taxonomic focus and involving experts covering different regions of Italy and have been evaluated according to the IUCN standards. A total of 151 species of wild bees native to Italy, for which some indication of decline exists, have been included in the evaluation. The populations were evaluated in their Italian area, including large and small islands where necessary. Of the 151 species assessed, 5 are Critically Endangered and have not been recorded recently. For this reason they are classified as Possibly Extinct. Of the remaining species, 2 are Critically Endangered, 10 are Endangered, 4 are Vulnerable. An additional 13 species are Near Threatened, meaning that they are close to one of the three threat categories. The main threats to wild bees are related to land use change (agricultural intensification and expansion, urbanization, but also - for some species - natural reforestation following the abandonment of rural areas and overgrazing). Some species may be sensitive to climate change. The Red List is a fundamental tool for the identification of conservation priorities, but it is not a list of priorities on its own. Other elements instrumental to priority setting include the cost of action, the probability of success, and the proportion of the global population of each species living in Italy, which determines the national responsibility in the long term conservation of that species.

To consolidate the available information on terrestrial and marine mammals of the department of Nariño, voucher specimens from national collections as well as records from international museum databases and the scientific literature were... more

To consolidate the available information on terrestrial and marine mammals of the department of Nariño, voucher specimens from national collections as well as records from international museum databases and the scientific literature were investigated. A checklist of 182 mammalian species is presented. Out of those, 24 species are considered as threatened under some category in Colombia. Our work reveals the need of new efforts to fill out the mammalian information gaps for this portion of the country.

The Spoon-billed Sandpiper Calidris pygmaea is one of the most threatened waders in the world. Its population declined dramatically in the decade to 2010, and without concerted conservation action it would now have been on the cusp of... more

The Spoon-billed Sandpiper Calidris pygmaea is one of the most threatened waders in the world. Its population declined dramatically in the decade to 2010, and without concerted conservation action it would now have been on the cusp of extinction. In 2010, conservation organisations from along the species' migratory flyway, supported by organisations and individuals in the UK and elsewhere, joined forces to try to save it. In this paper, we describe the action taken and the challenges that remain. The work so far has made a substantial difference to the chances of survival of the Spoon-billed Sandpiper, its intertidal habitats and other species suffering similar threats. It has also benefited the people who live alongside it. However, much more needs to be done and there are still gaps in our knowledge about what is required to save this flagship species.

This book is for all creatures great and small. It deals with the origin of the Chihuahua Breed Dog, the serious decrease in numbers of some creatures of the sea, air and land, and sadly, extinctions from the ice age to present day. This... more

This book is for all creatures great and small. It deals with the origin of the Chihuahua Breed Dog, the serious decrease in numbers of some creatures of the sea, air and land, and sadly, extinctions from the ice age to present day. This publication contains what I consider the highlights of many years of research and my published papers. It is focused on all readers, from teachers and students, to those home schooled, and to the casual reader. It is meant to inspire a greater unity between mankind and the animals under our stewardship. Dedicated to my parents, my wife Helen, and my children. This publication is printed by Dr. Robert Stauffer, and for the reading enjoyment of friends, family, and students. Some materials included are taken from multimedia and other public sources, and are assumed the property of their respective owners.

Climate change is threatening species and habitats. Altitudinal shifts uphill and negative population trends are commonly observed in altitude-related taxa. The bumblebee Bombus alpinus (Linnaeus, 1758) has a disjoint distribution... more

Climate change is threatening species and habitats. Altitudinal shifts uphill and negative population trends are commonly observed in altitude-related taxa. The bumblebee Bombus alpinus (Linnaeus, 1758) has a disjoint distribution restricted to Fennoscandia and the Alps, and is considered threatened. We studied the ecology and distribution of B. alpinus in the Alps, where the endemic subspecies Bombus alpinus helleri Dalla Torre 1882 is found, as a case-model because of its rarity, habitat, and mutual dependence with the ecosystem for pollination and resources. We developed species distribution models including both climatic and habitat variables to obtain the surface suitable for this subspecies and quantified its protected portion. Our analyses indicate that this bumblebee is restricted to the upper altitudes and has a narrow niche mainly related to the presence of glaciers, the cool temperature, a low temperature variation, and a specific range of precipitation. A strong altitudinal shift is also taking place probably due to climate change. After years of no changes in altitudinal distribution, its lowest altitudinal limit has moved up 479 m since the year 1984, while its upper altitudinal limit has remained unchanged. Over half of the suitable area in the Alps is included within protected areas, but conservation has not been planned yet. However, rare species with narrow niche, such as B. alpinus, are highly threatened by climate change. Potential short-term mitigation actions are discussed, including exchange of males between locations and integral protection of prairies in the vicinity of glaciers.

In Brazil, studies on roadkills are recent and usually restricted to lists of species found at some road stretch. Among mammals, medium-and large-sized species have received greater attention. The present study aimed at presenting the... more

In Brazil, studies on roadkills are recent and usually restricted to lists of species found at some road stretch. Among mammals, medium-and large-sized species have received greater attention. The present study aimed at presenting the first list of bat roadkills in Brazil, including comments on the traits that may cause roadkills. We recorded 415 deaths from 44 species of seven families in all Brazilian biomes. We did not observe a relationship between body size or type of flight with the number of bat-vehicle collisions. Frugivore was the trophic guild most victimized, possibly due to greater natural abundance, foraging in low height airspace, and capacity to make long-distance movements. The elevated number of species recorded indicates that these roads may exert a negative effect on bat fauna. We encourage road ecologists and environmental agencies to include bats in their fauna monitoring of road infrastructure and request to make more accurate estimates of this impact.

Spatial representations of threatening processes – “threat maps” – can identify where biodiversity is at risk, and are often used to identify priority locations for conservation. In doing so, decision makers are prone to making errors,... more

Spatial representations of threatening processes – “threat maps” – can identify where biodiversity is at risk, and are often used to identify priority locations for conservation. In doing so, decision makers are prone to making errors, either by assuming that the level of threat dictates spatial priorities for action or by relying pri- marily on the location of mapped threats to choose possible actions. We show that threat mapping can be a useful tool when incorporated within a transparent and repeatable structured decision-making (SDM) process. SDM ensures transparent and defendable conservation decisions by linking objectives to biodiversity out- comes, and by considering constraints, consequences of actions, and uncertainty. If used to make conservation decisions, threat maps are best developed with an understanding of how species respond to actions that miti- gate threats. This approach will ensure that conservation actions are prioritized where they are most cost-effec- tive or have the greatest impact, rather than where threat levels are highest.

A survey of nocturnal migrant birds at Dalton Pass, Nueva Vizcaya Province, Luzon, was mounted during October 2009–January 2010 as part of surveys for the Streaked Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus sorghophilus), conducted under joint agreement... more

A survey of nocturnal migrant birds at Dalton Pass, Nueva Vizcaya Province, Luzon, was mounted during October 2009–January 2010 as part of surveys for the Streaked Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus sorghophilus), conducted under joint agreement between The Wetland Trust (UK) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and in collaboration with the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines. A total of 116 bird species was recorded in and around the Dalton Pass area, of which 43 species were numbered among nocturnal migrants.
A total of 559 birds was recorded as caught by local trappers, including 245 individuals of 32 species ringed and released by project personnel. Additionally 134 birds of 34 species of both residents and migrants were caught and ringed during the day.
No Streaked Reed Warblers were detected during the survey.
Among species caught by trappers that are Red Data Book-listed (of conservation concern) were one Japanese Night Heron Gorsachius goisagi (Endangered), ten Brown-banded Rails Lewinia mirifica (Data Deficient) and one Spotted Imperial Pigeon Ducula carola (Vulnerable).
An estimated 20 trappers caught birds in the immediate Dalton Pass area. Based on enquiries made during the project, the nocturnal trapping habit is believed to be widespread in many areas of northern Luzon and presents a continued threat to wild bird populations.
More detailed surveys are required to estimate the take of birds. Recommendations for future work and conservation action are made.

Harvesting of orchids for medicine and salep production is a traditional practice, and increasing market demand is spurring illegal harvest. Ethno-ecological studies in combination with the effect of anthropogenic disturbance are lacking... more

Harvesting of orchids for medicine and salep production is a traditional practice,
and increasing market demand is spurring illegal harvest. Ethno-ecological
studies in combination with the effect of anthropogenic disturbance are lacking for orchids. We compared population density and structure, and tuber biomass of Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D. Don) Soó for three years in two sites: Manang, where harvesting of medicinal plants was locally regulated (protected), and Darchula, where harvesting was locally unregulated (unprotected). Six populations were studied along an elevation gradient by establishing 144 temporary plots (3 × 3 m2) from 3,400 to 4,600 m elevations. Mean density of D. hatagirea was significantly higher in the locally protected (1.31 ± 0.17 plants/m2) than in the unprotected (0.72 ± 0.06 plants/m2) site. The protected site showed stable population density with high reproductive fitness and tuber biomass over the three-year period. A significant negative effect (p < .1) of relative radiation index (RRI) on the density of the adult vegetative stage and a positive
effect of herb cover on juvenile and adult vegetative stages were found using mixed
zero-inflated Poisson (mixed ZIP) models. The densities of different life stages were
highly sensitive to harvesting and livestock grazing. Significant interactions between
site and harvesting and grazing indicated particularly strong negative effects of these
disturbances on densities of juvenile and adult reproductive stages in the unprotected
site. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with informants (n = 186) in
the villages and at the ecological survey sites. Our interview results showed that at
the protected site people are aware of the conservation status and maintain sustainable populations, whereas the opposite was the case at the unprotected site where the populations are threatened. Sustainability of D. hatagirea populations, therefore, largely depends on controlling illegal and premature harvesting and unregulated livestock grazing, thus indicating the need for permanent monitoring of the species.

From February 29th to March 3rd 2016, a range wide, multistakeholder species conservation planning workshop took place for the Chacoan peccary (Catagonus wagneri) in Asuncion, Paraguay. Details on the status of the Chacoan peccary, the... more

From February 29th to March 3rd 2016, a range wide, multistakeholder
species conservation planning workshop took place for the Chacoan peccary (Catagonus wagneri) in Asuncion, Paraguay. Details on the status of the Chacoan peccary, the workshop and its outcomes can be found in Altrichter et al. elsewhere in this Volume of Suiform Soundings. This paper focusses on the use of the population viability analysis software “Vortex” (Lacy and Pollak, 2015) as an integral component of the workshop.

Executive summary Background Macquarie perch (MP; Macquaria australasica Cuvier 1830) were historically widespread throughout the southern Murray–Darling Basin (MDB), but have substantially declined in terms of their abundance and... more

Executive summary
Background
Macquarie perch (MP; Macquaria australasica Cuvier 1830) were historically widespread throughout the southern Murray–Darling Basin (MDB), but have substantially declined in terms of their abundance and distribution since the 1900s. The species is now listed as nationally endangered, and there is only one known remaining population in the NSW Murray region — in Mannus Creek, within the Upper Murray area. Despite the threat of localised extinction to MP in the NSW Murray region, little is known about the status of the Mannus Creek population, or how best to manage the creek’s habitat conditions to ensure the species’ persistence and recovery in the region long term. The current project was undertaken to:
1. determine if MP still persist within Mannus Creek, and if they do,
2. examine the abundance and distribution of MP within Mannus Creek
3. assess Mannus Creek for suitable habitat and refuge for MP, and identify any deficiencies or major threats
4. develop a long-term management plan for the Mannus Creek system.
Findings
 There is a small, self-sustaining MP population still present in Mannus Creek, inhabiting the 9-km section immediately downstream of Mannus Falls and within Bogandyera Nature Reserve.
 This section of the creek is characterised by the presence of a relatively high proportion of flowing habitat (runs and/or riffles) and an abundance of coarse rock piles.
 Principal component analysis showed that the three studied reaches of Mannus Creek (upstream of Mannus Dam, between Mannus Dam and Mannus Falls and downstream of Mannus Falls) were significantly different in regards to habitat feature composition; particularly when comparing the upper reach (upstream of the Mannus Dam) with the lower reach (downstream of Mannus Falls).
 Multiple regression analyses confirmed that MP abundance was significantly positively associated with the occurrence of run habitat and boulders, especially during the autumn/winter.
 Canonical correspondence analysis determined that the presence of MP was mostly influenced by coarse rock substrate (cobble, boulder and bedrock).
 Results from the only other existing MP habitat association study reported similar findings for a remnant population in the upper Lachlan catchment — with MP occurrence found to be mainly determined by the availability of flowing habitats (riffles and runs) as well as the availability of small complex rock piles (aggregations of boulders of 0.5–1 m diameter) for cover (Gilligan et al. 2010b).

A site-specific threat assessment of the gangetic dolphin was carried out in river Kulsi. Threats were identified by extensive literature survey and direct observation in field. Twelve threats were identified after the study. The study... more

A site-specific threat assessment of the gangetic dolphin was carried out in river Kulsi. Threats were identified by extensive literature survey and direct observation in field. Twelve threats were identified after the study. The study was a fervent attempt to identify the threats and prepare a detailed list of these threats faced by the cetacean in Kulsi. The study reiterates that Kulsi is one of the last refuges of the gangetic dolphin and that the threats faced by the animal in this river are to yet to be acknowledged by the concerned authorities in order to conserve this species.

1. Fish species that have no commercial or recreational value are often overlooked in conservation management, despite serious threats to their long‐term future. This can be termed the 'small threatened freshwater fishes' paradigm. 2.... more

1. Fish species that have no commercial or recreational value are often overlooked in conservation management, despite serious threats to their long‐term future. This can be termed the 'small threatened freshwater fishes' paradigm. 2. Population viability analysis (PVA) is a useful technique to assess threatened species and conservation management options. While the development and use of population models and population viability analysis is common in conservation, and often used for larger fishes, this has not been so for small threatened freshwater species. 3. This study uses the PVA process to develop a stochastic population model for Nannoperca australis (southern pygmy perch) in temperate south‐eastern Australia. 4. The model was most sensitive to early life‐history survival rates, for which there were no estimates from field data, compared with other model uncertainty. This study also found that the oldest age class had the highest reproductive value, providing unique support to the value of big, old, fat and fecund fish (BOFFFs) in sustaining natural populations. 5. Modelling indicated that a population in stable habitat supporting about 2000 female adults would likely to be viable, able to withstand some disturbance and possibly be used as a source population for reintroductions. In reality, however, there are few populations in the wild of sufficient size to withstand such take for translocations and hence the production of fish through hatchery means may be required. 6. This type of approach should prove useful for the conservation management of many similar species globally.

Wild animals are captured or taken opportunistically, and the meat, body parts, and/or eggs are consumed for local subsistence or used for traditional purposes to some extent across most of the world, particularly in the tropics and... more

Wild animals are captured or taken opportunistically, and the meat, body parts, and/or eggs are consumed for local subsistence or used for traditional purposes to some extent across most of the world, particularly in the tropics and subtropics. The consumption of aquatic animals is widespread, in some places has been sustained for millennia, and can be an important source of nutrition, income, and cultural identity to communities. Yet, economic opportunities to exploit wildlife at higher levels have led to unsustainable exploitation of some species. In the literature, there has been limited focus on the exploitation of aquatic non-fish animals for food and other purposes. Understanding the scope and potential threat of aquatic wild meat exploitation is an important first step toward appropriate inclusion on the international policy and conservation management agenda. Here, we conduct a review of the literature, and present an overview of the contemporary use of aquatic megafauna (cetaceans, sirenians, chelonians, and crocodylians) in the global tropics and subtropics, for species listed on the Appendices of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). We find that consumption of aquatic megafauna is widespread in coastal regions, although to varying degrees, and that some species are likely to be at risk from overexploitation, particularly riverine megafauna. Finally, we provide recommendations for CMS in the context of the mandate of the Aquatic Wild Meat Working Group.

The geographic distribution of Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus (Gmelin, 1788), in Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil, is revised and expanded. Two individuals were recorded in an Atlantic Forest fragment surrounded by rural and... more

The geographic distribution of Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus (Gmelin, 1788), in Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil, is revised and expanded. Two individuals were recorded in an Atlantic Forest fragment surrounded by rural and industrial areas in Macaé municipality, on the northern coast of Rio de Janeiro state. This is the twentieth time that B. virginianus is documented in this state in the last two centuries and highlights the importance of bird surveys in regions with ornithological knowledge gaps.

2nd international training course on frontiers in animal ecology and conservation biology, organized by China Chapter, Society of Conservation Biology, International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS), Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology... more

2nd international training course on frontiers in animal ecology and conservation biology, organized by China Chapter, Society of Conservation Biology, International Society of Zoological Sciences (ISZS), Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology (IOZ) and Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). It was held in Beijing, 22 November - 1 December 2014. The training provided new theories, changes, and developments in methodology of animal ecology, in the field of conservation biology; enhanced the overall academic understandings and innovation of animal ecology and conservation biology and facilitates communication among animal ecologists and conservationists from developing countries. I participated in the training program as well as the 6th international symposium of integrative zoology in the Institute of Zoology, Chinese academy of Sciences 24-25 November.

Large flying-foxes in insular Southeast Asia are the most threatened of the Old World fruit bats due to high levels of deforestation and hunting and effeetively little loeal eonservation eommitment. The forest at Subie Bay, Philippines,... more

Large flying-foxes in insular Southeast Asia are the most threatened of the Old World fruit bats due to high levels of deforestation and hunting and effeetively little loeal eonservation eommitment. The forest at Subie Bay, Philippines, supports a rare, large eolony of vulnerable Philippine giant fruit bats {P ter opus vampyrus lanensis) and endangered and endemie golden er owned flying-foxes (Acerodon jubatus). These large flying-foxes are optimal for eonservation foeus, beeause in addition to being keystone, flagship, and umbrella speeies, the bats are important to Subie Bay's eeonomy and its indigenous eultures. Habitat seleetion information stream lines management's efforts to proteet and eonserve these popular but threatened animals. We used radio telemetry to deseribe the bats' nighttime use of habitat on two eeologieal seales: vegetation and mierohabitat. The fruit bats used the entire 14,000 ha study area, ineluding all of Subie Bay Watershed Reserve, as well ...

Deserts are often neglected in what concerns conservation funding. Ecotourism, an alternative land-use with ability to preserve threatened biodiversity, is also less developed in these arid lands. Since ecotourism can constitute a... more

Deserts are often neglected in what concerns conservation funding. Ecotourism, an alternative land-use with ability to preserve threatened biodiversity, is also less developed in these arid lands. Since ecotourism can constitute a complementary approach to natural and cultural resources and to local economy development, more investment should be allocated to desert ecotourism research. Particularly in sites where few alternatives remain to sustain the livelihoods of poor communities. Some key issues on desert ecotourism are discussed here. More research on this particular topic is needed.

Introduction. Some species of protozoa and helminthes parasitize the digestion system of some vertebrate hosts, jeopardizing the conservation of wild animals that are in captivity for their rehabilitation and subsequent reintroduction... more

Introduction. Some species of protozoa and helminthes parasitize the digestion system of some vertebrate hosts, jeopardizing the conservation of wild animals that are in captivity for their rehabilitation and subsequent reintroduction into their habitats. Objective. To evaluate intestinal parasitism in red howler monkeys (Aloutta seniculus) kept in captivity for their rehabilitation in the center for attention, assessment and rehabilitation of wild animals (CAVR for its acronym in Spanish) Ecosantafé, in Jericó, Antioquia. Materials and methods. A descriptive study was performed, collecting 21 samples of stool by the use of a convenience sampling during June, September and December, 2011. Each sample was analyzed with direct microscopy (direct smear and colors: modified Ziehl Neelsen and Gram chromotrope), Mini Parasep® concentration technique and stool cultures in agar and Harada Mori. Results. A parasitism (at least one parasite) of 95,2%, and a 71,4% of multiparasitism percentages were observed, with no statistically significant differences between individuals of both sexes or between young and adult individuals. The parasites detected belong to the Trichomonadidae family (95,2 %) the genera Giardia (52,4 %), Blastocystis (42,9 %), Strongyloides (21,1 %), Cryptosporidium (14,3 %) and the Entamoeba coli species (9,5 %). Conclusion. The findings of this study are important, given the negative consequences intestinal parasites can have for the health, the rehabilitation and the conservation of the Alouatta seniculus and other wild species. Besides, the parasites detected are considered as amphixenosis, which means that these findings are also important for public health.

We present the first record of maned sloth (Bradypus torquatus) consumption by the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier). Our record is based on the analysis of stomach contents of a tiger shark captured off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state,... more

We present the first record of maned sloth (Bradypus torquatus) consumption by the tiger shark
(Galeocerdo cuvier). Our record is based on the analysis of stomach contents of a tiger shark captured
off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil. Although it is not possible to distinguish
between a predation and scavenging event, we consider it likely that the sloth was consumed while
dispersing between the islands of the region. We also comment on the heretofore unforeseen risks of
aquatic dispersal by xenartrans.